Mavericks trade rumors: Dallas not done making moves after Kyrie Irving deal

The Dallas Mavericks had the NBA world buzzing on Sunday afternoon when they traded for Kyrie Irving. It was a blockbuster deal that changes the future of the franchise. Gone are Dorian Finney-Smith and Spencer Dinwiddie as they added an eight-time All-Star to share the backcourt with Luka Doncic. The Mavs needed a second star to be true title contenders, and they acquired one on Feb. 5.

Dallas pulled off a stunner, and they may not be done (subscription required), according to Callie Caplan of the Dallas Morning News. She notes the Mavs want to make more moves before Thursday’s trade deadline.

They are looking to build a title contender around Luka Doncic, and the Mavericks gave up two starters to acquire Kyrie Irving. They need more defense, playmaking, and an upgrade at the five, even after acquiring the eight-time All-Star from the Brooklyn Nets, and that is why they are rumored to not be done upgrading their roster.

 Mavericks trade rumors: Dallas not done making moves after Kyrie Irving deal

Caplan mentions the team has interest in trading away Tim Hardaway Jr., Davis Bertans, and JaVale McGee before the deadline. The Mavs also face a key decision on what to do with Christian Wood. He is on an expiring contract, and Dallas does not want to risk him departing in free agency for nothing as Jalen Brunson did last summer. Wood's extension talks have not gone well, and the front office may decide to trade him out of Dallas.

The Mavericks should be looking to plug holes and upgrade before Thursday’s deadline. They can still trade their 2027 first-round pick, and Dallas should do if they can find a capable role player that complements Doncic and Irving. The Mavs went all-in by trading for Kyrie, and they must maintain that mantra as they try to bring home the championship this year.

There is no guarantee Irving stays beyond this season. He can sign a two-year extension worth $80 million, but Tim MacMahon reported the Mavericks will hold off on talks until this summer. If Kyrie leaves in free agency, Dallas will have near max cap space to acquire a second star, but finding one willing to sign with the Mavs won't be easy.

Most likely, the Dallas Mavericks trade for a third ball-handler and an upgrade at the five before Thursday's deadline. They could also be players in the buyout market with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving locked in for the remainder of the season. Who can the Mavs add and what impact will they have on the team? Stay tuned to find out.